Image Credit: BCCI
Crawley Falls Late, India Gain Upper Hand in Oval Test
India extended their dominance on Day 3 of the fifth Test at The Oval, thanks to a steady batting performance led by Yashasvi Jaiswal and useful middle-order contributions. Resuming the day in a strong position, the Indian lineup posted a massive total, putting pressure on the hosts. Jaiswal continued his fine run, scoring a fluent half-century and breaking a record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar for most runs in a Test series in England by an Indian.
Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant added valuable runs, while lower-order batters ensured India’s lead crossed the 250-run mark. India eventually declared, sending England in to bat late in the day.
Bumrah Breaks Through as Crawley Falls
England began their second innings under pressure and faced a hostile spell from India’s pace duo—Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Although Zak Crawley provided some stability with a gritty 61, India struck at a key moment just before stumps. Bumrah found the outside edge of Crawley’s bat, and the catch was safely taken at second slip.
This breakthrough shifted momentum back to India, leaving England one down and facing a huge deficit going into Day 4. With variable bounce and overcast skies expected to assist bowlers further, India hold the upper hand.
India Poised for Series Victory
With three days of dominance and a big lead in hand, India are well-positioned to win the Oval Test and clinch the series. England now face the daunting task of batting long and surviving the fourth day against a relentless Indian bowling unit.
